IN an apparent response to calls in some quarters for the Government to implement a welfare programme for Jamaica’s athletes, Minister Natalie Neita-Headley has promised a National Insurance Scheme (NIS) that will cover 1,500 athletes across sporting disciplines.

The sports minister said that the Government is behind the athletes 100 per cent and will continue to lend its support.

“As a government we are determined to continue to facilitate an environment for our sportsmen and sportswomen to do well. One major step in that direction has just been achieved as part of the implementation of the National Sport Policy, which we laid on the table in 2013,” Neita-Headley told the Jamaica Observer.

“We have recently issued the request for proposals to those entities eligible to provide a NIS, which would offer coverage to up to 1,500 eligible national athletes across sporting disciplines. This will provide support to our national athletes and allow them to receive the requisite health screening, as well as preventive and remedial health care.

“We are awaiting favourable responses and I am eagerly waiting for the day when I can hand the first athlete his or her health insurance card,” she further explained.

In addition to the NIS, Neita-Headley said that the long-awaited and well-anticipated National Sport Museum will soon be a reality.

“The project has been approved by Cabinet and we have a $39-million allocation from the Ministry of Finance to commence. A feasibility report has been completed and additional work is ongoing,” she said.

“We have a tendency to celebrate our athletes only during their great performances and then forget them for most of the other times. The National Sport Museum will celebrate them forever. Supporters, sponsors, partners, and persons wishing to donate artefacts are encouraged to come on board,” she declared.

Neita-Headley said the Government will do everything to ensure that the athletes are well taken care of.

“This Government is ensuring that, step by step, each aspect of the National Sport Policy is examined, expanded, explored and implemented for the advancement of sport and the spiritual, mental and physical well-being of all Jamaicans.

“Remember, when you (athletes) win or excel, we get that adrenaline rush that makes us all feel like winners. It makes us all become instant patriots, proud to be Jamaicans, and it makes us re-evaluate our own behaviour and attitudes. We still have some ways to go and some heavy lifting to undertake,” she ended.